Technology
Trip.com Group Limited Reports Unaudited Third Quarter of 2024 Financial Results
Published
2 years agoon
By
SINGAPORE, Nov. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Trip.com Group Limited (Nasdaq: TCOM; HKEX: 9961) (“Trip.com Group” or the “Company”), a leading one-stop travel service provider of accommodation reservation, transportation ticketing, packaged tours, and corporate travel management, today announced its unaudited financial results for the third quarter of 2024.
Key Highlights for the Third Quarter of 2024
International businesses experienced robust growth across all segments in the third quarter of 2024
– Outbound hotel and air reservations rebounded to approximately 120% of the pre-COVID level for the same period in 2019.
– Air ticket and hotel reservations on the Company’s international OTA brand increased by over 60% year-over-year.
The Company delivered solid results in the third quarter of 2024
– Net revenue for the third quarter grew by 16% year-over-year.
– Net income for the third quarter was RMB6.8 billion (US$970 million), compared to RMB4.6 billion for the same period in 2023.
– Adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter was RMB5.7 billion (US$808 million), improving from RMB4.6 billion for the same period last year.
“During the third quarter of 2024, both domestic and international travel exhibited robust growth,” said James Liang, Executive Chairman. “With increasing consumer confidence and heightened travel sentiment, we are optimistic about the continued growth of the travel industry. Additionally, we are confident that the AI-driven technological revolution will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the global travel industry.”
“We are delighted to witness the resilience of the travel market. Through our hard work, we are proud to create new job opportunities for young people and bring new business volume to our partners in the travel industry,” said Jane Sun, Chief Executive Officer. “Travel is a catalyst for economic growth, a bridge to understanding, and a pathway to a peaceful world. We will continue to offer excellent service, drive business for our partners, and introduce China to the world through travel.”
Third Quarter of 2024 Financial Results and Business Updates
For the third quarter of 2024, Trip.com Group reported net revenue of RMB15.9 billion (US$2.3 billion), representing a 16% increase from the same period in 2023, primarily driven by stronger travel demand. Net revenue for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 24% from the previous quarter, primarily due to seasonality.
Accommodation reservation revenue for the third quarter of 2024 was RMB6.8 billion (US$969 million), representing a 22% increase from the same period in 2023, primarily driven by an increase in accommodation reservations. Accommodation reservation revenue for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 32% from the previous quarter, primarily due to seasonality.
Transportation ticketing revenue for the third quarter of 2024 was RMB5.7 billion (US$805 million), representing a 5% increase from the same period in 2023 primarily driven by an increase in transportation reservations. Transportation ticketing revenue for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 16% from the previous quarter, primarily due to seasonality.
Packaged-tour revenue for the third quarter of 2024 was RMB1.6 billion (US$222 million), representing a 17% increase from the same period in 2023, primarily driven by an increase in packaged-tour reservations. Packaged-tour revenue for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 52% from the previous quarter, primarily due to seasonality.
Corporate travel revenue for the third quarter of 2024 was RMB656 million (US$93 million), representing an 11% increase from the same period in 2023, primarily driven by an increase in corporate travel reservations. Corporate travel revenue for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 4% from the previous quarter.
Cost of revenue for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 13% to RMB2.8 billion (US$399 million) from the same period in 2023 and increased by 21% from the previous quarter, which was generally in line with the increase in net revenue from the respective periods. Cost of revenue as a percentage of net revenue was 18% for the third quarter of 2024.
Product development expenses for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 2% to RMB3.6 billion (US$519 million) from the same period in 2023 and increased by 22% from the previous quarter, primarily due to an increase in product development personnel related expenses. Product development expenses as a percentage of net revenue was 23% for the third quarter of 2024.
Sales and marketing expenses for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 23% to RMB3.4 billion (US$482 million) from the same period in 2023 and increased by 19% from the previous quarter, primarily due to the increase in expenses relating to sales and marketing promotion activities. Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of net revenue was 21% for the third quarter of 2024.
General and administrative expenses for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 2% to RMB1.0 billion (US$149 million) from the same period in 2023 and decreased by 3% from the previous quarter. General and administrative expenses as a percentage of net revenue was 7% for the third quarter of 2024.
Income tax expense for the third quarter of 2024 was RMB721 million (US$103 million), compared to RMB448 million for the same period in 2023 and RMB693 million for the previous quarter. The change in Trip.com Group’s effective tax rate was primarily due to the combined impacts of changes in respective profitability of its subsidiaries with different tax rates, changes in deferred tax liabilities relating to withholding tax, certain non-taxable income or loss resulting from the fair value changes in equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes recorded in other income/(expense), and changes in valuation allowance provided for deferred tax assets.
Net income for the third quarter of 2024 was RMB6.8 billion (US$970 million), compared to RMB4.6 billion for the same period in 2023 and RMB3.9 billion for the previous quarter. Adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter of 2024 was RMB5.7 billion (US$808 million), compared to RMB4.6 billion for the same period in 2023 and RMB4.4 billion for the previous quarter.
Net income attributable to Trip.com Group’s shareholders for the third quarter of 2024 was RMB6.8 billion (US$962 million), compared to RMB4.6 billion for the same period in 2023 and RMB3.8 billion for the previous quarter. Excluding share-based compensation charges, fair value changes of equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes recorded in other income/(expense), and their tax effects, non-GAAP net income attributable to Trip.com Group’s shareholders for the third quarter of 2024 was RMB6.0 billion (US$847 million), compared to RMB4.9 billion for the same period in 2023 and RMB5.0 billion for the previous quarter.
Diluted earnings per ordinary share and per ADS was RMB9.93 (US$1.42) for the third quarter of 2024. Excluding share-based compensation charges, fair value changes of equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes recorded in other income/(expense), and their tax effects, non-GAAP diluted earnings per ordinary share and per ADS was RMB8.75 (US$1.25) for the third quarter of 2024. Each ADS currently represents one ordinary share of the Company.
As of September 30, 2024, the balance of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term investment, and held to maturity time deposit and financial products was RMB86.9 billion (US$12.4 billion).
Conference Call
Trip.com Group’s management team will host a conference call at 7:00 PM on November 18, 2024, U.S. Eastern Time (or 8:00 AM on November 19, 2024, Hong Kong Time) following the announcement.
The conference call will be available live on Webcast and for replay at: https://investors.trip.com. The call will be archived for twelve months on our website.
All participants must pre-register to join this conference call using the Participant Registration link below:
https://register.vevent.com/register/BIacab26e628b84d85a1589994ea124dc9
Upon registration, each participant will receive details for this conference call, including dial-in numbers and a unique access PIN. To join the conference, please dial the number provided, enter your PIN, and you will join the conference instantly.
Safe Harbor Statement
This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “future,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “is/are likely to,” “confident,” or other similar statements. Among other things, quotations from management in this press release, as well as Trip.com Group’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, severe or prolonged downturn in the global or Chinese economy, general declines or disruptions in the travel industry, volatility in the trading price of Trip.com Group’s ADSs or shares, Trip.com Group’s reliance on its relationships and contractual arrangements with travel suppliers and strategic alliances, failure to compete against new and existing competitors, failure to successfully manage current growth and potential future growth, risks associated with any strategic investments or acquisitions, seasonality in the travel industry in the relevant jurisdictions where Trip.com Group operates, failure to successfully develop Trip.com Group’s existing or future business lines, damage to or failure of Trip.com Group’s infrastructure and technology, loss of services of Trip.com Group’s key executives, adverse changes in economic and business conditions in the relevant jurisdictions where Trip.com Group operates, any regulatory developments in laws, regulations, rules, policies or guidelines applicable to Trip.com Group and other risks outlined in Trip.com Group’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the issuance, and Trip.com Group does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.
About Non-GAAP Financial Measures
To supplement Trip.com Group’s consolidated financial statements, which are prepared and presented in accordance with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”), Trip.com Group uses non-GAAP financial information related to adjusted net income attributable to Trip.com Group Limited, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, and adjusted diluted earnings per ordinary share and per ADS, each of which is adjusted from the most comparable GAAP result to exclude the share-based compensation charges that are not tax deductible, fair value changes of equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes recorded in other income/(expense), net of tax, and other applicable items. Trip.com Group’s management believes the non-GAAP financial measures facilitate better understanding of operating results from quarter to quarter and provide management with a better capability to plan and forecast future periods.
Non-GAAP information is not prepared in accordance with GAAP, does not have a standardized meaning under GAAP, and may be different from non-GAAP methods of accounting and reporting used by other companies. The presentation of this additional information should not be considered a substitute for GAAP results. A limitation of using non-GAAP financial measures is that non-GAAP measures exclude share-based compensation charges, fair value changes of equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes recorded in other income/(expense), and their tax effects that have been and will continue to be significant recurring expenses in Trip.com Group’s business for the foreseeable future.
Reconciliations of Trip.com Group’s non-GAAP financial data to the most comparable GAAP data included in the consolidated statement of operations are included at the end of this press release.
About Trip.com Group Limited
Trip.com Group Limited (Nasdaq: TCOM; HKEX: 9961) is a leading global one-stop travel platform, integrating a comprehensive suite of travel products and services and differentiated travel content. It is the go-to destination for travelers in China, and increasingly for travelers around the world, to explore travel, get inspired, make informed and cost-effective travel bookings, enjoy hassle-free on-the-go support, and share travel experience. Founded in 1999 and listed on Nasdaq in 2003 and HKEX in 2021, the Company currently operates under a portfolio of brands, including Ctrip, Qunar, Trip.com, and Skyscanner, with the mission “to pursue the perfect trip for a better world.”
For further information, please contact:
Investor Relations
Trip.com Group Limited
Tel: +86 (21) 3406-4880 X 12229
Email: iremail@trip.com
Trip.com Group Limited
Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In millions, except share and per share data)
December 31, 2023
September 30, 2024
September 30, 2024
RMB (million)
RMB (million)
USD (million)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
43,983
41,982
5,982
Short-term investments
17,748
34,316
4,890
Accounts receivable, net
11,410
13,839
1,972
Prepayments and other current assets
15,591
24,461
3,486
Total current assets
88,732
114,598
16,330
Property, equipment and software
5,142
5,060
721
Intangible assets and land use rights
12,644
12,898
1,838
Right-of-use asset
641
732
104
Investments (Includes held to maturity time deposit and
financial products of RMB15,530 million and RMB10,561
million as of December 31,2023 and September 30,
2024, respectively)
49,342
46,745
6,661
Goodwill
59,372
60,926
8,682
Other long-term assets
688
545
78
Deferred tax asset
2,576
2,796
398
Total assets
219,137
244,300
34,812
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt
25,857
26,607
3,792
Accounts payable
16,459
17,596
2,507
Advances from customers
13,380
17,217
2,453
Other current liabilities
16,715
19,017
2,711
Total current liabilities
72,411
80,437
11,463
Deferred tax liability
3,825
3,797
541
Long-term debt
19,099
19,126
2,725
Long-term lease liability
477
543
77
Other long-term liabilities
319
270
39
Total liabilities
96,131
104,173
14,845
MEZZANINE EQUITY
–
733
104
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Total Trip.com Group Limited shareholders’ equity
122,184
138,410
19,723
Non-controlling interests
822
984
140
Total shareholders’ equity
123,006
139,394
19,863
Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and shareholders’
equity
219,137
244,300
34,812
Trip.com Group Limited
Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income
(In millions, except share and per share data)
Quarter ended
Quarter ended
Quarter ended
Quarter ended
September 30, 2023
June 30, 2024
September 30, 2024
September 30, 2024
RMB (million)
RMB (million)
RMB (million)
USD (million)
Revenue:
Accommodation reservation
5,589
5,136
6,802
969
Transportation ticketing
5,367
4,871
5,650
805
Packaged-tour
1,328
1,025
1,558
222
Corporate travel
591
633
656
93
Others
876
1,123
1,234
176
Total revenue
13,751
12,788
15,900
2,265
Less: Sales tax and surcharges
(11)
(16)
(27)
(4)
Net revenue
13,740
12,772
15,873
2,261
Cost of revenue
(2,467)
(2,312)
(2,800)
(399)
Gross profit
11,273
10,460
13,073
1,862
Operating expenses:
Product development *
(3,577)
(2,993)
(3,640)
(519)
Sales and marketing *
(2,759)
(2,835)
(3,382)
(482)
General and administrative *
(1,028)
(1,077)
(1,045)
(149)
Total operating expenses
(7,364)
(6,905)
(8,067)
(1,150)
Income from operations
3,909
3,555
5,006
712
Interest income
543
634
598
85
Interest expense
(529)
(514)
(399)
(57)
Other income/(expense)
545
(183)
1,781
254
Income before income tax
expense and equity in income of
affiliates
4,468
3,492
6,986
994
Income tax expense
(448)
(693)
(721)
(103)
Equity in gain of affiliates
618
1,089
558
79
Net income
4,638
3,888
6,823
970
Net income attributable to non-
controlling interests and mezzanine
classified non-controlling interests
(23)
(55)
(58)
(8)
Net income attributable to
Trip.com Group Limited
4,615
3,833
6,765
962
Earnings per ordinary share
– Basic
7.05
5.84
10.37
1.48
– Diluted
6.84
5.57
9.93
1.42
Earnings per ADS
– Basic
7.05
5.84
10.37
1.48
– Diluted
6.84
5.57
9.93
1.42
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding
– Basic
654,146,029
655,857,569
652,719,801
652,719,801
– Diluted
674,134,652
687,977,626
681,411,847
681,411,847
* Share-based compensation included in Operating expenses above is as follows:
Product development
242
322
221
31
Sales and marketing
44
55
38
5
General and administrative
223
297
200
29
Trip.com Group Limited
Unaudited Reconciliation of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results
(In millions, except %, share and per share data)
Quarter ended
Quarter ended
Quarter ended
Quarter ended
September 30, 2023
June 30, 2024
September 30, 2024
September 30, 2024
RMB (million)
RMB (million)
RMB (million)
USD (million)
Net income
4,638
3,888
6,823
970
Less: Interest income
(543)
(634)
(598)
(85)
Add: Interest expense
529
514
399
57
Add: Other (income)/expense
(545)
183
(1,781)
(254)
Add: Income tax expense
448
693
721
103
Add: Equity in income of affiliates
(618)
(1,089)
(558)
(79)
Income from operations
3,909
3,555
5,006
712
Add: Share-based compensation
509
674
459
65
Add: Depreciation and amortization
204
207
215
31
Adjusted EBITDA
4,622
4,436
5,680
808
Adjusted EBITDA margin
34 %
35 %
36 %
36 %
Net income attributable to Trip.com Group Limited
4,615
3,833
6,765
962
Add: Share-based compensation
509
674
459
65
Add: (Gain)/loss from fair value changes of equity securities
investments and exchangeable senior notes
(185)
435
(1,276)
(182)
Add: Tax effects on fair value changes of equity securities
investments and exchangeable senior notes
(42)
43
15
2
Non-GAAP net income attributable to Trip.com Group Limited
4,897
4,985
5,963
847
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding-
Diluted-non GAAP
674,134,652
687,977,626
681,411,847
681,411,847
Non-GAAP Diluted income per share
7.26
7.25
8.75
1.25
Non-GAAP Diluted income per ADS
7.26
7.25
8.75
1.25
Notes for all the condensed consolidated financial schedules
presented:
Note 1: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into U.S. dollars (USD) is based on the certified exchange rate of USD1.00=RMB7.0176 on September 30, 2024 published by the
Federal Reserve Board.
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tripcom-group-limited-reports-unaudited-third-quarter-of-2024-financial-results-302308299.html
SOURCE Trip.com Group Limited
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Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung Announces Physical AI Vision at San Francisco AI Summit
Published
46 minutes agoon
July 25, 2026By
Hyundai Motor Group shares roadmap for realizing its Physical AI vision and collaboration strategy with global tech leaders at the San Francisco AI SummitExecutive Chair Euisun Chung presented, “Hyundai Motor Group is evolving beyond the traditional boundaries of automotive manufacturing to become a Physical AI solution company,” adding, “The ultimate Physical AI vision we pursue is the realization of integrated intelligence at the city level”The Group to leverage manufacturing competitiveness and leading robotics capabilities centered on Boston Dynamics, while establishing a data flywheel system connecting real-world operational data with continuous AI model advancementThe Group to leverage strategic partnerships with global technology leaders, including NVIDIA and Waymo, as well as Boston Dynamics’ strategic partnership with Google DeepMindThe Group to collaborate with NVIDIA to develop a Robot Reference Platform that combines Hyundai Motor Group’s and NVIDIA’s Physical AI capabilities
… The initiative to support Korea’s Physical AI industry through an open ecosystem
The Group to cultivate strategic domestic hubs through investments in Saemangeum AI Valley and future advanced industries in Korea’s Yeongnam region
SAN FRANCISCO, July 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) Executive Chair Euisun Chung today outlined the Group’s vision and strategy for Physical AI at the San Francisco AI Summit held in San Francisco, California.
The event brought together approximately 150 attendees, including Executive Chair Chung, business leaders from major Korean companies, executives from leading U.S. technology firms, startup representatives and students.
At the summit, Executive Chair Chung presented the Group’s roadmap for advancing Physical AI and outlined strategic collaboration plans with global technology leaders.
“Hyundai Motor Group is evolving beyond the traditional boundaries of automotive manufacturing by expanding into autonomous driving, robotics and AI Defined Factories, accelerating our transformation into a Physical AI solution company.” — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung
Accelerating the Transition to a Physical AI Solution Company
Hyundai Motor Group’s Physical AI vision extends beyond intelligent devices such as vehicles and robots to intelligent spaces, including AI factories where AI seamlessly connects and optimizes entire operations. Ultimately, the Group envisions integrated intelligence at the city level, where urban infrastructure is organically connected and operated through AI.
A key differentiator for the Group is its ability to create a data flywheel that continuously connects real-world operations with AI advancement. Drawing on extensive experience in large-scale manufacturing, mobility, robotics and service operations, the Group is positioned to deploy, refine and scale Physical AI technologies in real industrial environments.
Executive Chair Chung also outlined strategic partnerships with leading technology companies, including NVIDIA and Waymo, as well as Boston Dynamics’ strategic partnership with Google DeepMind, to further advance Physical AI capabilities.
By combining Hyundai Motor Group’s manufacturing competitiveness, mobility and robotics technologies and extensive operational data with the AI infrastructure and algorithm capabilities of global technology leaders, the Group aims to help foster a new innovation ecosystem for the Physical AI era.
Executive Chair Chung also introduced initiatives designed to support the growth of Korea’s robotics and AI ecosystem, including the development of a Robot Reference Platform with NVIDIA that combines Hyundai Motor Group’s and NVIDIA’s Physical AI capabilities, as well as investments in initiatives such as the Saemangeum AI Valley.
Physical AI Vision: From Intelligent Devices to Integrated Intelligence at the City Level
During the summit, Executive Chair Chung presented Hyundai Motor Group’s Physical AI vision.
“The ultimate Physical AI vision Hyundai Motor Group pursues begins with intelligent devices such as vehicles and robots, expands to intelligent spaces such as AI factories, and ultimately realizes integrated intelligence at the city level, where urban infrastructure is seamlessly connected and operated.” — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung
The Group’s vision begins with intelligent devices, where AI capabilities enhance vehicles and robots. It then expands to intelligent spaces, including AI factories where AI autonomously integrates logistics, production and quality management across entire operations.
Ultimately, Hyundai Motor Group envisions city-level intelligence, where critical infrastructure and assets — including energy, mobility and robotics systems — are connected and optimized in real time.
Executive Chair Chung also highlighted the Group’s key strengths in realizing its Physical AI vision:
World-class manufacturing competitiveness: Hyundai Motor Group has built extensive expertise through decades of operating global manufacturing facilities, managing quality systems and optimizing supply chains. This foundation enables the Group to apply AI technologies to products, processes and services while rapidly validating and scaling innovations in real-world environments.Leading robotics capabilities: Hyundai Motor Group has established robotics as a key pillar of its future business portfolio. Boston Dynamics’ quadruped robot Spot®, logistics robot Stretch®, and Hyundai Motor Group Robotics LAB’s next-generation mobile robot platform MobED are recognized for combining technological competitiveness with real-world applicability.
In particular, the humanoid robot Atlas® is emerging as a representative example of Physical AI, supporting and collaborating with people across manufacturing, logistics and mobility environments.
Establishing a data flywheel system: Hyundai Motor Group is establishing a data flywheel system that leverages data generated across manufacturing operations, vehicles, logistics systems and robotics demonstrations to continuously advance AI models. Enhanced algorithms are then reapplied to real-world operations, creating a virtuous cycle that improves performance and strengthens Physical AI capabilities.
Accelerating the Future of Physical AI Through Partnerships with Global Tech Leaders
Executive Chair Chung also outlined concrete initiatives to position Hyundai Motor Group as a leader in human-centered Physical AI through strategic collaborations with NVIDIA and Waymo, as well as Boston Dynamics’ strategic partnership with Google DeepMind.
“By combining Hyundai Motor Group’s strengths in manufacturing, robotics and data with the capabilities of global technology leaders, we can help create a new innovation ecosystem for the Physical AI era.” — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung
NVIDIA – Advancing Physical AI infrastructure and talent development
Hyundai Motor Group is expanding collaboration with NVIDIA to strengthen Physical AI infrastructure and cultivate AI talent. Building on a supply agreement for 50,000 NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs and a memorandum of understanding signed last year to advance Korea’s Physical AI capabilities, the Group is pursuing a range of initiatives, including the establishment of Hyundai Motor Group Robot Application Center, as well as various collaborations aimed at strengthening Korea’s Physical AI infrastructure and AI talent ecosystem, including the NVIDIA’s AI Technology Center.
In manufacturing, the Group is leveraging NVIDIA’s platform to create more sophisticated digital twins of production facilities, enhancing process design, operational optimization and validation efficiency. The collaboration also includes the integration of NVIDIA’s autonomous driving solutions, including automotive semiconductors, sensors and architecture, with Hyundai Motor Group vehicle platforms.
Waymo – Strengthening autonomous driving collaboration
Hyundai Motor Group continues to strengthen its strategic partnership with Waymo in the autonomous driving sector to support the development of a safe and innovative autonomous driving ecosystem. Autonomous driving vehicles require a wide range of specialized capabilities, including redundant systems for steering, braking, power and communications, dedicated features such as power-operated doors, as well as enhanced functional safety and cybersecurity technologies.
Hyundai Motor Group plans to produce IONIQ 5 vehicles with specific autonomous-ready modifications at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Georgia.
Google DeepMind – Accelerating next-generation humanoid robotics
Boston Dynamics has established a strategic partnership with Google DeepMind to accelerate the development of next-generation humanoid robots. Advanced AI models and training systems are essential for robots to perform complex tasks in real-world environments and collaborate effectively with people. Through this partnership, Boston Dynamics robots are expected to achieve greater autonomy and adapt more effectively to complex operating environments.
Hyundai Motor Group plans to establish a robot production facility in the U.S. with an annual capacity of up to 30,000 units by 2028. The Atlas humanoid robot will first be deployed at production facilities including HMGMA before broader deployment is expanded through phased validation.
Building an Open Ecosystem Through the Robot Reference Platform and Continued Investment in Korea’s Physical AI Future
Executive Chair Chung also outlined initiatives aimed at supporting the growth of Korea’s Physical AI ecosystem through open collaboration and continued investment.
“The outcomes of collaboration with global technology leaders should contribute to the growth of Korea’s Physical AI industry. To that end, Hyundai Motor Group plans to foster an open ecosystem that supports innovation in robotics and AI technologies.” — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung
Key initiatives to build an open ecosystem for robotics and AI innovation include:
Robot Reference Platform: Hyundai Motor Group and NVIDIA are collaborating to develop a Robot Reference Platform that combines Hyundai Motor Group’s and NVIDIA’s Physical AI capabilities.
The platform will provide research robot models to universities, research institutes and startups, helping foster an open ecosystem that supports technological innovation and the development of Physical AI talent while contributing to the broader growth of Korea’s robotics and AI industries.
Supporting universities, research institutes and startups: The Robot Reference Platform is expected to provide universities, research institutes and startups with a standardized hardware and software environment, enabling them to more easily develop and validate Physical AI technologies. The initiative aims to help address challenges faced by organizations with innovative ideas but limited access to commercialization opportunities and validation infrastructure.
Hyundai Motor Group is also continuing large-scale investments aimed at driving the next leap forward in Korea’s industrial and technology ecosystem. Continued investments in Korea’s industrial and technology ecosystem include:
Saemangeum AI Valley: In the Saemangeum region of Jeonbuk State, the Group is developing Saemangeum AI Valley, which includes an approximate KRW 9 trillion investment in AI data centers, robotics manufacturing clusters, electrolyzer plants and AI hydrogen city infrastructure.
In particular, the robotics manufacturing cluster will serve not only as a production base for the Group’s own robotics products, but also as a robotics foundry that provides manufacturing services for small and medium-sized enterprises that lack manufacturing expertise.
Advanced industrial hubs in the Yeongnam region: Hyundai Motor Group plans to invest a total of KRW 42 trillion over the next decade to foster advanced industrial hubs focused on AI-driven manufacturing, future aerospace industries and sustainable energy infrastructure.
Through these initiatives, Hyundai Motor Group aims to strengthen key foundations for the Physical AI era, including data and energy infrastructure, robotics production capabilities and real-world validation capabilities. The Group also expects these investments to contribute to enhanced industrial competitiveness, balanced regional development, job creation and broader economic vitality in Korea.
About Hyundai Motor Group
Hyundai Motor Group is a global enterprise that has created a value chain based on mobility, steel, and construction, as well as logistics, finance, IT, and service. With about 250,000 employees worldwide, the Group’s mobility brands include Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Armed with creative thinking, cooperative communication, and the will to take on any challenges, we strive to create a better future for all.
More information about Hyundai Motor Group can be found at: http://www.hyundaimotorgroup.com or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai, Kia Global Newsroom, Genesis Newsroom
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SOURCE Hyundai Motor Company
Technology
Tencent Brings Together AI and Games to Help Preserve and Share Cultural Heritage of New UNESCO Site in Jingdezhen
Published
2 hours agoon
July 25, 2026By
Tencent applies AI and games to protect, reconstruct, and promote one of the world’s oldest porcelain traditions at newly inscribed UNESCO siteDigital initiatives create a new model for technology-driven heritage preservation globally using a multimodal AI dataset, AI-assisted artifact restoration, and interactive virtual experiences
SHENZHEN, China, July 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Tencent (00700.HK) today announced the launch of Digital Jingdezhen: Porcelain Craft Adventure, an AI-powered cultural heritage game that enables users to explore Jingdezhen’s porcelain-making traditions and experience traditional craft techniques through interactive play. The launch coincides with the inscription of the Jingdezhen Handicraft Porcelain Industry Sites on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List.
Digital Jingdezhen is part of a broader cultural innovation initiative that applies Tencent’s AI and game technologies. Guided by Tencent’s vision of “Tech for Good”, the initiative leverages digital preservation to keep Jingdezhen’s thousand-year-old porcelain culture alive and relevant today, creating a living heritage with sustainable value and broad public engagement, and building a model that could be carried to heritage sites around the world.
Digital Preservation: Restoring and Unlocking Heritage with AI
Jingdezhen has a thousand years of living heritage; centuries of tradition are still active in its kilns today. To preserve this legacy, a cornerstone of the project was the Jingdezhen Porcelain Cultural Heritage Multimodal AI Dataset.
Over decades, historical records, heritage information, and craft specifications have accumulated into a massive volume of data. Tencent applied Optical Character Recognition (OCR), Natural Language Processing (NLP), and knowledge graph technologies to transform these dispersed materials into structured digital resources that can be analyzed, extracted, verified, and traced back to their original sources.
The dataset contains more than 30,000 documentary records, over 5,000 ceramic gene specimens, and data on nearly 1,000 representative ceramic artifacts in collections worldwide. It provides a digital foundation for cultural research, exhibition development, public interpretation and AI-powered heritage applications.
Building on this foundation, Tencent has developed a range of industry- and public-facing applications, including the Jingdezhen Ancient Ceramics Gene Database, the World Ceramics Interactive Map, and the Digital Jingdezhen AI Companion, providing researchers, heritage professionals, and the public with innovative AI-powered tools to explore and understand porcelain heritage.
Digital Activation: Bringing Jingdezhen’s Porcelain Heritage to Life Through AI and Games
To bring the public closer to Jingdezhen and its porcelain-making traditions, Digital Jingdezhen: Porcelain Craft Adventure utilizes AI-assisted Procedural Content Generation (PCG) to create the first large-scale digital recreation of the city’s five major porcelain heritage sites and historical production scenes. By rapidly mapping out town layouts and automatically generating architectural structures, decorative elements, and pedestrians, the technology brings Jingdezhen’s historic townscape back to life in the digital world.
The game also features high-quality AI digital humans built on large language models and the Jingdezhen Porcelain Cultural Heritage Multimodal AI Dataset. Through AI voice-driven facial expressions and Tencent Games’ proprietary animation technology, it creates warm, human-centered interactive experiences that make historical knowledge tangible and relatable. At the same time, AI-powered 3D generation allows users to quickly transform an uploaded image into a 3D porcelain form, lowering the barrier to participation and enabling anyone to turn creative inspiration into tangible ceramic forms in the digital space.
Continuing Heritage: Mobilizing the Community
Ensuring the longevity of Jingdezhen’s legacy requires active public participation. Tencent developed the Digital Heritage Guardian (Jingdezhen), a volunteer program built within the Weixin ecosystem. The program enables the public to support the upkeep and stewardship of physical heritage sites, creating a practical channel for community involvement in heritage protection.
“Our work in Jingdezhen is a testament to how ‘AI for Good’ can breathe new life into ancient traditions,” said Zhan Shu, Head of Digital Culture Lab, Tencent. “Working alongside dedicated heritage experts, we have contributed our capabilities in AI and digital technologies to unlock decades of dormant archives for this incredible new UNESCO site. We are proud to help bridge the gap between the thousand-year porcelain heritage and the digital era, creating new ways for the global public to connect with Jingdezhen’s living history, and a model for heritage sites worldwide.”
For media queries, please contact: gc@tencent.com
Tencent is a global technology and entertainment company focused on creating connections and experiences that matter. Founded in 1998, Tencent is driven by its mission to create “Value for Users” and apply “Tech for Good.”
Tencent’s communication and social services connect more than one billion people around the world, helping them to keep in touch with friends and family, access transportation, pay for daily necessities, and even be entertained. Tencent also develops and publishes some of the world’s most popular video games and other high-quality digital content, delivering rich and immersive interactive entertainment experiences. Tencent also offers a range of services such as cloud computing and other enterprise services to support our clients’ digital transformation and business growth. Headquartered in Shenzhen, Tencent has been listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong since June 2004.
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tencent-brings-together-ai-and-games-to-help-preserve-and-share-cultural-heritage-of-new-unesco-site-in-jingdezhen-302834555.html
SOURCE Tencent
Technology
Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung Announces Physical AI Vision at San Francisco AI Summit
Published
2 hours agoon
July 25, 2026By
Hyundai Motor Group shares roadmap for realizing its Physical AI vision and collaboration strategy with global tech leaders at the San Francisco AI SummitExecutive Chair Euisun Chung presented, “Hyundai Motor Group is evolving beyond the traditional boundaries of automotive manufacturing to become a Physical AI solution company,” adding, “The ultimate Physical AI vision we pursue is the realization of integrated intelligence at the city level”The Group to leverage manufacturing competitiveness and leading robotics capabilities centered on Boston Dynamics, while establishing a data flywheel system connecting real-world operational data with continuous AI model advancementThe Group to leverage strategic partnerships with global technology leaders, including NVIDIA and Waymo, as well as Boston Dynamics’ strategic partnership with Google DeepMindThe Group to collaborate with NVIDIA to develop a Robot Reference Platform that combines Hyundai Motor Group’s and NVIDIA’s Physical AI capabilities
… The initiative to support Korea’s Physical AI industry through an open ecosystem
The Group to cultivate strategic domestic hubs through investments in Saemangeum AI Valley and future advanced industries in Korea’s Yeongnam region
SAN FRANCISCO, July 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) Executive Chair Euisun Chung today outlined the Group’s vision and strategy for Physical AI at the San Francisco AI Summit held in San Francisco, California.
The event brought together approximately 150 attendees, including Executive Chair Chung, business leaders from major Korean companies, executives from leading U.S. technology firms, startup representatives and students.
At the summit, Executive Chair Chung presented the Group’s roadmap for advancing Physical AI and outlined strategic collaboration plans with global technology leaders.
“Hyundai Motor Group is evolving beyond the traditional boundaries of automotive manufacturing by expanding into autonomous driving, robotics and AI Defined Factories, accelerating our transformation into a Physical AI solution company.” — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung
Accelerating the Transition to a Physical AI Solution Company
Hyundai Motor Group’s Physical AI vision extends beyond intelligent devices such as vehicles and robots to intelligent spaces, including AI factories where AI seamlessly connects and optimizes entire operations. Ultimately, the Group envisions integrated intelligence at the city level, where urban infrastructure is organically connected and operated through AI.
A key differentiator for the Group is its ability to create a data flywheel that continuously connects real-world operations with AI advancement. Drawing on extensive experience in large-scale manufacturing, mobility, robotics and service operations, the Group is positioned to deploy, refine and scale Physical AI technologies in real industrial environments.
Executive Chair Chung also outlined strategic partnerships with leading technology companies, including NVIDIA and Waymo, as well as Boston Dynamics’ strategic partnership with Google DeepMind, to further advance Physical AI capabilities.
By combining Hyundai Motor Group’s manufacturing competitiveness, mobility and robotics technologies and extensive operational data with the AI infrastructure and algorithm capabilities of global technology leaders, the Group aims to help foster a new innovation ecosystem for the Physical AI era.
Executive Chair Chung also introduced initiatives designed to support the growth of Korea’s robotics and AI ecosystem, including the development of a Robot Reference Platform with NVIDIA that combines Hyundai Motor Group’s and NVIDIA’s Physical AI capabilities, as well as investments in initiatives such as the Saemangeum AI Valley.
Physical AI Vision: From Intelligent Devices to Integrated Intelligence at the City Level
During the summit, Executive Chair Chung presented Hyundai Motor Group’s Physical AI vision.
“The ultimate Physical AI vision Hyundai Motor Group pursues begins with intelligent devices such as vehicles and robots, expands to intelligent spaces such as AI factories, and ultimately realizes integrated intelligence at the city level, where urban infrastructure is seamlessly connected and operated.” — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung
The Group’s vision begins with intelligent devices, where AI capabilities enhance vehicles and robots. It then expands to intelligent spaces, including AI factories where AI autonomously integrates logistics, production and quality management across entire operations.
Ultimately, Hyundai Motor Group envisions city-level intelligence, where critical infrastructure and assets — including energy, mobility and robotics systems — are connected and optimized in real time.
Executive Chair Chung also highlighted the Group’s key strengths in realizing its Physical AI vision:
World-class manufacturing competitiveness: Hyundai Motor Group has built extensive expertise through decades of operating global manufacturing facilities, managing quality systems and optimizing supply chains. This foundation enables the Group to apply AI technologies to products, processes and services while rapidly validating and scaling innovations in real-world environments.Leading robotics capabilities: Hyundai Motor Group has established robotics as a key pillar of its future business portfolio. Boston Dynamics’ quadruped robot Spot®, logistics robot Stretch®, and Hyundai Motor Group Robotics LAB’s next-generation mobile robot platform MobED are recognized for combining technological competitiveness with real-world applicability.
In particular, the humanoid robot Atlas® is emerging as a representative example of Physical AI, supporting and collaborating with people across manufacturing, logistics and mobility environments.
Establishing a data flywheel system: Hyundai Motor Group is establishing a data flywheel system that leverages data generated across manufacturing operations, vehicles, logistics systems and robotics demonstrations to continuously advance AI models. Enhanced algorithms are then reapplied to real-world operations, creating a virtuous cycle that improves performance and strengthens Physical AI capabilities.
Accelerating the Future of Physical AI Through Partnerships with Global Tech Leaders
Executive Chair Chung also outlined concrete initiatives to position Hyundai Motor Group as a leader in human-centered Physical AI through strategic collaborations with NVIDIA and Waymo, as well as Boston Dynamics’ strategic partnership with Google DeepMind.
“By combining Hyundai Motor Group’s strengths in manufacturing, robotics and data with the capabilities of global technology leaders, we can help create a new innovation ecosystem for the Physical AI era.” — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung
NVIDIA – Advancing Physical AI infrastructure and talent development
Hyundai Motor Group is expanding collaboration with NVIDIA to strengthen Physical AI infrastructure and cultivate AI talent. Building on a supply agreement for 50,000 NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs and a memorandum of understanding signed last year to advance Korea’s Physical AI capabilities, the Group is pursuing a range of initiatives, including the establishment of Hyundai Motor Group Robot Application Center, as well as various collaborations aimed at strengthening Korea’s Physical AI infrastructure and AI talent ecosystem, including the NVIDIA’s AI Technology Center.
In manufacturing, the Group is leveraging NVIDIA’s platform to create more sophisticated digital twins of production facilities, enhancing process design, operational optimization and validation efficiency. The collaboration also includes the integration of NVIDIA’s autonomous driving solutions, including automotive semiconductors, sensors and architecture, with Hyundai Motor Group vehicle platforms.
Waymo – Strengthening autonomous driving collaboration
Hyundai Motor Group continues to strengthen its strategic partnership with Waymo in the autonomous driving sector to support the development of a safe and innovative autonomous driving ecosystem. Autonomous driving vehicles require a wide range of specialized capabilities, including redundant systems for steering, braking, power and communications, dedicated features such as power-operated doors, as well as enhanced functional safety and cybersecurity technologies.
Hyundai Motor Group plans to produce IONIQ 5 vehicles with specific autonomous-ready modifications at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Georgia.
Google DeepMind – Accelerating next-generation humanoid robotics
Boston Dynamics has established a strategic partnership with Google DeepMind to accelerate the development of next-generation humanoid robots. Advanced AI models and training systems are essential for robots to perform complex tasks in real-world environments and collaborate effectively with people. Through this partnership, Boston Dynamics robots are expected to achieve greater autonomy and adapt more effectively to complex operating environments.
Hyundai Motor Group plans to establish a robot production facility in the U.S. with an annual capacity of up to 30,000 units by 2028. The Atlas humanoid robot will first be deployed at production facilities including HMGMA before broader deployment is expanded through phased validation.
Building an Open Ecosystem Through the Robot Reference Platform and Continued Investment in Korea’s Physical AI Future
Executive Chair Chung also outlined initiatives aimed at supporting the growth of Korea’s Physical AI ecosystem through open collaboration and continued investment.
“The outcomes of collaboration with global technology leaders should contribute to the growth of Korea’s Physical AI industry. To that end, Hyundai Motor Group plans to foster an open ecosystem that supports innovation in robotics and AI technologies.” — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung
Key initiatives to build an open ecosystem for robotics and AI innovation include:
Robot Reference Platform: Hyundai Motor Group and NVIDIA are collaborating to develop a Robot Reference Platform that combines Hyundai Motor Group’s and NVIDIA’s Physical AI capabilities.
The platform will provide research robot models to universities, research institutes and startups, helping foster an open ecosystem that supports technological innovation and the development of Physical AI talent while contributing to the broader growth of Korea’s robotics and AI industries.
Supporting universities, research institutes and startups: The Robot Reference Platform is expected to provide universities, research institutes and startups with a standardized hardware and software environment, enabling them to more easily develop and validate Physical AI technologies. The initiative aims to help address challenges faced by organizations with innovative ideas but limited access to commercialization opportunities and validation infrastructure.
Hyundai Motor Group is also continuing large-scale investments aimed at driving the next leap forward in Korea’s industrial and technology ecosystem. Continued investments in Korea’s industrial and technology ecosystem include:
Saemangeum AI Valley: In the Saemangeum region of Jeonbuk State, the Group is developing Saemangeum AI Valley, which includes an approximate KRW 9 trillion investment in AI data centers, robotics manufacturing clusters, electrolyzer plants and AI hydrogen city infrastructure.
In particular, the robotics manufacturing cluster will serve not only as a production base for the Group’s own robotics products, but also as a robotics foundry that provides manufacturing services for small and medium-sized enterprises that lack manufacturing expertise.
Advanced industrial hubs in the Yeongnam region: Hyundai Motor Group plans to invest a total of KRW 42 trillion over the next decade to foster advanced industrial hubs focused on AI-driven manufacturing, future aerospace industries and sustainable energy infrastructure.
Through these initiatives, Hyundai Motor Group aims to strengthen key foundations for the Physical AI era, including data and energy infrastructure, robotics production capabilities and real-world validation capabilities. The Group also expects these investments to contribute to enhanced industrial competitiveness, balanced regional development, job creation and broader economic vitality in Korea.
About Hyundai Motor Group
Hyundai Motor Group is a global enterprise that has created a value chain based on mobility, steel, and construction, as well as logistics, finance, IT, and service. With about 250,000 employees worldwide, the Group’s mobility brands include Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Armed with creative thinking, cooperative communication, and the will to take on any challenges, we strive to create a better future for all.
More information about Hyundai Motor Group can be found at: http://www.hyundaimotorgroup.com or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai, Kia Global Newsroom, Genesis Newsroom
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SOURCE Hyundai Motor Company
Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung Announces Physical AI Vision at San Francisco AI Summit
Tencent Brings Together AI and Games to Help Preserve and Share Cultural Heritage of New UNESCO Site in Jingdezhen
Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung Announces Physical AI Vision at San Francisco AI Summit
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